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2d Barcoded Prescriptions

From DLM 280, prescriptions can be printed with a two dimensional bar-code which incorporates the exact same drug data on the prescription that is printed in text, including drug name, form, strength, dosage etc. This barcode can be scanned using a handheld scanner by the pharmacist and will transfer all of the data held on the prescription onto the pharmacy software before dispensing. See Barcoded Prescriptions - Wales and NI and the following link:

http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/page.cfm?orgid=771&pid=29234

For Welsh practices, the barcode will print on the bottom right hand side of the prescription, next to the practice and GP details. All other information held on the prescription had not changed position. Repeat Dispensing prescriptions will not print with a barcode.

Note - With 2D Barcodes, there is no electronic transmission of prescription data.

Advanced Printing MUST be enabled for Welsh practices to allow for the extra prescribing functionality within Vision. As well as 2D barcodes, this includes:

  • Independent/Supplementary prescribers to print prescriptions if required. See Wales Nurse prescribing.
  • Prescriptions print with a bolder font.
  • Prescription Manager replaces the Print Therapy screen. Within here you have the choice of using the Active Simple tab, which resembles the current Print Therapy screen or the Active Full tab, which divides items by prescription items
  • Printer settings can be easily configured.

Note too:

  • Acute, repeat issues and repeat dispensing prescriptions all print with a barcode.
  • A maximum of four drugs print per prescription sheet. If the text of a prescribed drugs exceeds the available space on the prescription, Vision will print the remaining drugs on another prescription page.
  • You may notice that part of the practice address is truncated to make room for the barcode.
  • For Independent/Supplementary Prescribers either a "J" or "S" (respectively) prints in front of their 6-digit cipher on the top left hand side of the barcode. Similarly, for a Trainee/Locum Prescriber, either a "T" or "L" will print in front of the practice GP’s 6-digit cipher.
  • In addition to the standard prescription data, a unique prescription reference number is generated for each prescription and added to the information contained in the barcode. This is for security reasons.
  • Handwritten amendments, additions and deletions to prescriptions with 2D barcodes are not permitted. If you need to change a 2D prescription, you must carry out the changes in Consultation Manager and reprint the prescription. The changes will be reflected in the barcode.

2d barcoding also has the benefit of increased security (preventing manual amendments), improved quality of patient data between GPs and Community Pharmacies, and improved efficiency.

Prerequisites for 2d barcoding - Advanced Printing must be switched on for barcodes to be printed - see Printer Profiles. This will then substitute the Prescription Manager screen for Therapy print.

Note that prescriptions created before 'Advanced Printing' is switched on cannot be re-printed.

Switching on 2D barcoded prescriptions - In order to enable 2D prescription printing, a member of Vision will contact your surgery and remotely switch on this function. You can see if this functionality has been enabled from the front screen of Vision in Help - About Vision - Barcode printing - enabled.